The Alfa Romeo Alfasud, a sporty hatchback produced from the 1970s to the mid-1980s, is renowned for its engaging driving dynamics and unique character. While admired for its performance, it also has a reputation for requiring diligent maintenance. Finding a well-preserved Alfasud in New Zealand is a treat.
Rust, rust, and more rust! This is the Alfasud's biggest weakness. Engines can suffer from oil leaks and carburetor problems. Brake issues, including sticking calipers, are common. The electrical system is often problematic. Inner CV joints wear out quickly.
WOF tips
Pay very close attention to rust, especially in the floor, sills, and around the suspension mounts. Check the brakes thoroughly, ensuring they are effective and balanced. Inspect suspension components for wear and play. Ensure all lights are working correctly. Steering must be precise, with minimal play.
About the Alfa Romeo Alfasud ti
The Alfasud's key features are its flat-four engine, front-wheel drive, and responsive handling. However, these cars are known for rust, which is a constant battle. Parts can be difficult to source and expensive. The horizontally opposed engine requires specialized knowledge for maintenance. Despite its drawbacks, the driving experience is rewarding, making it a true enthusiast's car.
Questions owners ask
What are the common rust areas I need to watch out for on my Alfasud in New Zealand?
Rust is a major concern for the ALFA ROMEO ALFASUD 1979–1984. Key areas to inspect include the floor, sills, and around the suspension mounts. Regular rustproofing and inspections are crucial to preserving your Alfasud.
What should I pay special attention to during a Warrant of Fitness (WOF) check on my Alfasud?
During a WOF, the inspector will pay close attention to rust in the floor, sills and around suspension mounts. They'll also check the brakes thoroughly for effectiveness and balance, inspect suspension components for wear, and ensure all lights are working correctly. Steering must be precise, with minimal play.
Where can I get brake pads for my ALFA ROMEO ALFASUD 1979–1984 in NZ?
CARFIX stocks 136 SKUs for the ALFA ROMEO ALFASUD 1979–1984, including brake pads. Check our website or visit a store to find the correct BRAKE PADS FRONT and BRAKE PADS REAR for your model.
What are some of the common mechanical problems with the Alfasud?
Besides rust, common mechanical issues with the ALFA ROMEO ALFASUD 1979–1984 include oil leaks from the horizontally opposed engine, carburetor problems, sticking brake calipers, and a problematic electrical system. Inner CV joints also tend to wear out quickly.
How often should I service my ALFA ROMEO ALFASUD 1979–1984?
The recommended service interval for the ALFA ROMEO ALFASUD 1979–1984 is every 10000km. Regular servicing is essential to keep this classic running smoothly, especially given the potential for oil leaks and other issues.
Is it difficult to find parts for my Alfasud in New Zealand?
Sourcing parts for the ALFA ROMEO ALFASUD 1979–1984 can be challenging and expensive. CARFIX stocks 136 SKUs, which can help, but some specialized parts may require searching through specialist classic car suppliers.
What makes the Alfasud a rewarding car to own, despite its issues?
Despite the challenges of rust and maintenance, the ALFA ROMEO ALFASUD 1979–1984 offers a rewarding driving experience due to its flat-four engine, front-wheel drive, and responsive handling. It's a true enthusiast's car.